Mike Dunaway: The Legend of Long Drive 1955-2014

Mike Dunaway at his inauguration into the Long Drive Hall of Fame

I had the honor of meeting the legend of Long Drive and Life Time Achievement Awardee, Mike Dunaway, and sharing a few magical moments with him and the team of outstanding Long Drivers in the Hall of Fame. Mike truly inspired us all and for that we are all eternally grateful for his pioneering efforts.

We are all deeply saddened in the Long Drive Community by the passing of Mike Dunaway, one of the pioneers of professional power golf.

Dunaway, 58 years old, died Oct 2014 in Rogers, Arkansas after a lengthy illness.

Mike was a visionary. Without his pioneering efforts, our sport would not exist.

Mike Dunaway and Vince “The Pasta Guy” Cuirluini

Dallas Prince showcasing her magnificent World Championship rings

Art Sellenger, Dallas Prince and Mike Dunaway

Mike and Art

“We’ve lost one of the legends of long drive,” said LDA chief executive officer Art Sellinger. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to Mike’s family and loved ones.”

“I give full credit to Mike, for being a true pioneer in the promotion of long drive. His creation of the 350 club, long drive celebrity pro-ams and worldwide appearances & events paved the way for many future long drivers success. Mike’s ideas were far ahead of his time including his “Dunaway’s Runway” long drive facility and $10,000 challenge on the cover of Golf Magazine.

“Mike was a tremendous competitor who possessed perhaps the most graceful and efficient swing our sport has ever seen,” Sellinger added. “More than that, though,he was a true gentleman and a class act. He will be missed by many, especially those of us who held him in such high esteem as both a champion and a friend.”